Description

This book is an introduction to the war machine of New Kingdom Egypt from c. 1575 bc–1100 bc.

Focuses on the period in which the Egyptians created a professional army and gained control of Syria, creating an “Empire of Asia”.

Written by a respected Egyptologist.

Highlights new technological developments, such as the use of chariots and siege technology.

Considers the socio-political aspects of warfare, particularly the rise to power of a new group of men.

Evaluates the military effectiveness of the Egyptian state, looking at the logistics of warfare during this period.

Incorporates maps and photographs, a chronological table, and a chart of dynasties and pharaohs

About the Author

Anthony J. Spalinger is Professor of Egyptology at the University of Auckland, New Zealand. His recent publications include The Transformation of an Ancient Egyptian Narrative: P. Sallier III and the Battle of Kadesh (2002), The Private Feast Lists of Ancient Egypt (1996), Revolutions in Egyptian Calendrics (1994) and Three Studies on Egyptian Feasts (1992).

Permissions

2 The System of Early Dynasty XVIII: Technological and Physical Constraints 32

3 Southern and Northern Expansion 46

4 Social and Religious Implications of the New Military system 70

5 The Battle of Megiddo and its Result 83

6 The Pharaoh on Campaign: Ideal and Real 101

7 The Later Military Situation in Asia and at Home 110

8 Egyptian Imperialism and Thutmose III 130

9 Dynasty XVIII: Warfare and Economy 140

10 The Amarna Letters and War 160

11 The Influence of the Egyptian Military from Late Dynasty XVIII to Dynasty XIX 169

12 Early Dynasty XIX 187

13 To Kadesh and After 209

14 Merenpath and Ramesses III 235

15 Egypt on the Defensive 249

16 The Social System of the Military in the Ramesside Period 264

General Bibliography 278

Index 282

"For anyone interested in Egyptian military history, and wanting to learn more than the simple dry facts and the well-known major battles, then this book is an absolute must. The author is to be congratulated on this major contribution to our knowledge of warfare in ancient Egypt, presented in a very readable book, suitable for the beginner as well as the real enthusiast." Ancient Egypt

"A very handy and innovative introduction on the war machine of New Kingdom Egypt (ca. 1550-1070 BC)... shows a thorough familiarity with the ancient sources and relevant literature on military topics, ancient and modern... Spalinger's book is a stimulating and highly competent study no one who deals with New Kingdom warfare should overlook." Bryn Mawr Classical Review

An introduction to the war machine of New Kingdom Egypt (c. 1575 bc–1100 bc).

Focuses on the period in which the Egyptians created a professional army and gained control of Syria, creating an “Empire of Asia”.

Written by a respected Egyptologist.

Highlights new technological developments, such as the use of chariots and siege technology.

Considers the socio-political aspects of warfare, particularly the rise to power of a new group of men.

Evaluates the military effectiveness of the Egyptian state, looking at the logistics of warfare during this period.

Incorporates maps and photographs, a chronological table, and a chart of dynasties and pharaohs.